There are 49 different species of ticks in California, but only a few species transmit diseases to humans in California.

Ticks are divided into two groups: “hard ticks” (Ixodid ticks) and “soft ticks” (Argasids). Most soft ticks live in the nests of birds or wild animals like squirrels or rabbits. These ticks feed exclusively on animal hosts and are rarely seen by people.